Scanpower's Treesmart team has made history, becoming the first in New Zealand to gain the new Level 3 certificate in utility arboriculture, qualifying them for close work among power lines.
The team of six were highly skilled arborists and utility arborists who had gained the qualification in their industry ahead of all others, Brent Dais, Scanpower's manager of health, safety, quality and training, said.
"They have all worked for 18 months to gain this Level 3 qualification and it allows them to do vegetation work in amongst power lines, not only on our own network, but on other networks including Powerco and Electra.
"Treesmart has always been part of Scanpower, but they're turning into a business in their own right, thanks to their skills and qualifications."
The team had already gained utility arboriculture Level 2 certificates, but reaching the higher level has meant understanding complex issues such as taking out permits for work, earthing and bonding, legislation, and health and safety requirements.